Purple Lemon Photography

Babies C & E

2013-05-07T14:02:00.000-05:00

Today I am thinking of two little boys. Baby C and Baby E were born just shy of two weeks ago. I got the honor photographing these precious twins on their one week birthday, when they weighed in at just about 1.5 pounds each. What a miracle!

To see them, I had all my jewelry taken off and with my wedding ring pinned to my shirt,
I got to see the tiniest toes I've ever seen.
(below: C)

(below: E)

God has his hand on this little one (C)

And this little one (E). But as Baby C heads into surgery this afternoon, his brother says, you can do it!

We're praying for you guys!

Springtime: Roni & Matt

2013-05-07T10:06:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago, the sun was shining, the grass was green-ing, and the trees were budding. And Roni and Matt were loving and laughing and the simplicity of it made my morning.

Wedding: Nicolle & Matt

2013-05-02T13:44:00.000-05:00

Nicolle and Matt's wedding day was just what I expected it to be after having spent a great engagement session just a few weeks prior- simple, beautiful, bright, and full of laughter.

I normally do not blog the rehearsal, but this moment was so hilarious, I just had to throw it in the mix. Here they were all discussing how much more lively the wedding would be if they entered with glitter bombs and Kanye West. I so agree...

First look.

As I studied this photograph, I just began to fall in love with it. You can see Nicolle's adoring mom, her sister and grandparents just showing so much joy, and even their pastor looking on with such a tender expression.

First moment married!

I feel like these have a very fairy-tale-esque quality to them.

I love that these next two photos show Matt mindlessly spinning that new shiny wedding ring.

Wedding: Jessi & Jamie

2013-04-10T20:16:00.001-05:00

Oh man!! I am just giddy with excitement to share these wedding images from Jessi & Jamie's wedding day. Narrowing down the images for this post was a near impossible task, taking me far too many days, and I still have a ton to share. A bit of story-telling along the way, we'll start right in...

On the way to meet his bride.

First look!

This entire wedding took place in about the span of 2 city blocks- from getting ready, to photo locations, and venues- all in the Soulard neighborhood. When we discussed their wedding, they mentioned that they were having food from the distinctive and varied St. Louis neighborhoods, and wanted their wedding photos to show the "flavor of Soulard." Soulard, being known for it's farmers market, lent itself to having it's "flavor" literally photographed. So off to the market we went, for something out of the (tomato) box, a bit gritty, and a little unusual for a wedding day. I loved it.

I love the contrast of the groomsmen's tuxes with the farmer's jackets, just outside the market.

Still at the market, but a more upscale, European feel.

This wedding and reception took place at a great venue- The 9th Street Abbey in Soulard, MO. It is such a fabulous location, so we photographed out in their garden and inside with the fabulous stained glass windows before the ceremony.

When this photo came up on my screen, I said, "wowzers!"

What a stunning reception location!

This is when I was first, amazed at how well Jessi dances with her dad in her wheel chair, and then, secondly, when I cried as Jamie stood to dance with his mom.

Here you have Sarah and Luke. Sarah kissed Luke. Luke has her lipstick on his face. Awesome!

Wedding: Sarah & Brian

2013-03-27T21:13:00.000-05:00

My first memory of Sarah was that she told me she always noticed my earrings during my freshman year of college. Fast forward about a year when she was at my birthday party when someone else gave me handmade earrings (which I still wear). Strangest part- I was, at the time, still coming out of high school-athlete-tomboy-phase, and did not consider myself to be girly, let alone an "earring" person. Probably why it stuck with me.

But now my amazing job is full of oohs- and aahs over pretty dresses, earrings, and dapper-looking gentlemen on often one of the most sophisticated days of their lives. Speaking of Sarah and sophisticated days, it is due to this young woman that my husband and I got to attend a real ball several years ago. What a classy event and fun memory...but enough about my personal nostalgia.

Sarah and I reconnected last year and she mentioned that she was thinking Brian was about to propose. Sure enough, what seemed like mere weeks later, I got an email about photographing their wedding! I have been so excited to share some beautiful photos from their wedding. I'll tell a bit of their wedding story as I go...

First, let's meet our couple. Sarah (notice her lovely earrings...) and Brian.

I just love how Sarah's mom's dress sparkles on her gown.

Sarah's dad had some great cufflinks! One said "Father of the Bride" and the other said "I loved her first," which was the song they danced to at the reception. I love special details like that!

Just moments before the ceremony began, the best man popped his head out of the front door. I love when I get to capture real moments like these.

Never before have I seen so many people adore a wedding ring, but let me tell you- it sure is a beauty!

Their reception was held at Chandler Hill Winery in Defiance, MO.

As much as I love the photos of the couple, part of what I genuinely love is telling a story and capturing moments with great meaning. For me, this image tells a compelling story of a deep friendship that will support this marriage. This bridesmaid flew in from Dubai for the weekend to be a part of their wedding, and from what I understand, had to leave earlier than planned due to some security issues. She snuck away for a quick nap during the reception and I happened to pass by on my way to photograph from a second story room.

Congratulations Sarah and Brian!

Nicolle & Matt: Winter Engagement

2013-03-13T19:43:00.000-05:00

After taking a nice break for my maternity leave, and taking average, blurry, sleep deprived momma-photos of this little smile

the time has arrived to return to stunning portraiture.

Nicolle and Matt, perfectly suited to traipsing about on a blustery day on the first weekend in March, met me for an afternoon of breathtaking photography. I cannot tell you how many times my breath was literally taken away as I edited their photographs, reminding why I love to do what I do.

Beyond their sweet kiss, I love the details in the cafe and reflections on this image!

An active couple like this needs something to reflect their lifestyle. On the move...

They thought I was taking pictures of their shoes, but then I glanced up and...perfection. Such tenderness.

Just a few weeks left before this sweet couple ties the knot- you'll be seeing them here again soon!

Introducing Levi

2013-01-17T14:21:00.000-06:00

As you may or may not know, I am on maternity leave. We just had our second son almost a month ago, so before he gets to be that grand ol' age of one month, I wanted to share a few photos to introduce him.

(We'll start with a few from before we left the hospital.)

I'm pleased to introduce you to Levi Cardiff Dukes.

I simply love this photo. Even though my littlest is wailing.

Headed home...

Ten days old.

Spoiler alert: my preggo-belly gets big. Like really, really big. Like people ask if I'm having twins on a semi-frequent basis big. And no, I didn't, but I do have big babies and they get crammed in my five-foot-two-frame. If that freaks you out, stop scrolling and doing that fun two-finger trackpad swipe on your laptop.

Also, having two boys born 2 days apart makes for great ease in comparing the experience. For example, I could think: "With Eli, I did this, that, or the other on such and such a day..." and then I could know what to expect or how to compare what each experience was like. So, since my wardrobe was essentially the same, I made sure to get a photo taken of me the day before I had Levi in the same shirt in front of the same Christmas tree. Behold, my giant belly.

Maternity Leave

2012-12-04T11:40:00.000-06:00

We are beginning to close up shop for a little while, since our second wee one is almost here. We will be available periodically by email until he arrives and then closed until late winter. Stay tuned for a few photos after he arrives, and then we'll be back to portrait work in March.

Black and White Baby

2012-11-20T12:17:00.000-06:00

Several weeks ago, a friend had a little baby. Her fourth. She's amazing, as she greeted me at the door of her hospital room. Anyhow, just a few black and white baby photos to share today.

A new home

2012-11-15T12:21:00.000-06:00

Two months ago (though I cannot believe it was that long ago), I took a trip to photograph my cousin's wedding*. I'll take a break from designing her wedding album to share something else from that trip.

When I photographed one of my other cousin's weddings a few years ago, I photographed at my aunt and uncle's property. People often ask me where that amazing location is, and if I can take them there. I loved that home most of my upbringing, and actually did some of my early portrait "work" with my cousins when I was a kid in the woods and front porch.

When they told me they bought a home "in town," I have to admit, I was a little devastated. They kept telling my mom that when I came to see it, I'd love it, I was doubtful to say the least. But then... I got there and my jaw hit the floor.

So let's venture away from portraits for a little while, and I'll give you a tour of the parts of this simply amazing civil war era farmhouse that have already been or have started their restoration. If only you could see the starting point on some of this, the transformation would be simply mind blowing! My aunt and uncle have a gift, and since it isn't in a magazine (yet), I figure I'll put it on my blog.

My uncle made that table. With his hands... and I suppose some tools, but still... that's incredible!

Though not yet complete, Eli wanted a photo of him looking out of the window where he stayed. :)

Before loading up the car, we needed one last front porch rocking chair moment.

Thank you so much for your hospitality! I can't wait to see it all done.

*the top photo on that post shows me and my second shooter both pregnant, but also noteworthy is that she is having her baby... like...right now. Crazy! I, however, am not.

Final Fall Family

2012-11-06T13:42:00.000-06:00

The time has come. *sniffle* I am officially done shooting for the season before baby comes (though thankfully, I have a second shooter having a baby down the street in the next week or two so I know I can go over there and snap a few as well as having my own new baby to keep that shutter finger in shape until weddings start again in March).

I got to meet this handsome family last year, and I just adore how much they adore each other! I was so excited to photograph them again, and just look how happy these two kiddos were when their father arrived!

I don't do a lot of work in sepia, but I am just loving this!

These last three all have such sweet expressions.

Mine. And some experimenting.

2012-10-30T12:32:00.000-05:00

Around the time that I started thinking about taking a few updated pictures of my own son, he recalled this photo shoot, and asked to recreate it. He wanted to wear the same shirt (quite small now, but still in the drawer) and take the same camera. After some coaxing, we decided to take another broken vintage camera and wear a different outfit, but go for another photo shoot with just the two of us. Thankfully, he remembered that the first location was closed and we can never go back again (silly no trespassing signs...), and so we headed to a few places that I knew he'd love. Train station & farm store.

While at the station, I did some photography experiments. I felt like the set was having a vintage feel and the more I shot, the more I got to work in some effects. In this first image, while Eli was adjusting the camera, I adjusted my own to make this diptych of him both out of and in focus. I just love it.

The camera itself lent itself well to being edited in a vintage style.

And most fun of all, and certainly the most experimental, a two camera approach! I took the old Polaroid camera that Eli was pretend photographing with and placed it against the lens of my own. I messed around with focus and angle, loving the red line in the viewfinder of his and capturing both real life and "in camera" life at the same time. Shooting in a completely manual way while holding two cameras was a little tricky (especially while trying to make sure my pregnant belly was staying covered), but I love the effects. Here are a few favorites.

Wonderment.

Fall Family

2012-10-25T11:20:00.003-05:00

We've got a gorgeous family session to enjoy today. It was actually kind of a one year old session with some family thrown in, but what a great family, so it's a nice mix. I'm a fan! I love this family.

I love laughing photos!

But those serious ones are kind of addicting, too...

Mug 'n Bun Love

2012-10-18T11:16:00.002-05:00

This is one of those posts where I am me, and you get a glimpse at my family. I go on vacation, too, sometimes, though I suppose this one was for work. And when a photographer goes on a trip, even a lunch stop can mean a whole blog post.

You ready? This is full of Mug 'n Bun Love.

As soon as Abbey & Larry contacted me to photograph their wedding, do you know where my pregnant mind went? Mug 'n Bun. Yep. Straight to my favorite childhood drive in, where I'd go with my dad when I'd go to work with him at the church as a little girl. I went right to home made root beer,

some potato wedges, all seasoned and crispy,

a perfectly made grilled cheese.

So what is Mug 'n Bun? It's Indy's Oldest & Finest Drive In, of course...

where you put your lights on for service

unless you sit at the tables, of course. And let them take your order with a pencil

but you know what your dad is going to get before he orders it.

It's where you try to teach your son how amazing this greasy food is, but he's not used to such greasy delicacies and just shrugs, "eh, it's OK, mom."

Eyepatches are way more cool than french fries.

It's where I prepare months in advance for the extra insulin I'll need that day, and pray it doesn't make me sick; it's where I clear the tray and drink that root beer, every last sip, savoring each flavor, and being thankful Abbey & Larry decided to get married. ;)

Backyard Beautiful, Phase 2

2012-10-16T13:51:00.000-05:00

Be sure to see part one of this post here.

After we did the first part of the session, we switched it up. For a five year old, making things silly sure does make it worth it to go for some more photos! Who doesn't love a dress AND and skirt with baby leg warmers on your arms with your head wrapped up?

Mostly just an outfit change, and the addition of a few extra props, but a continuation of the dreamy, imaginative afternoon in the backyard theme. More experimentation on my part, and voila!

Soft and dreamy....

Light and cheerful.

More somber, contemplative.

And congratulations to you, young friend, as you get to be big sister to three this week! What a treat to snap a couple photos of your littlest brother.

Backyard Beautiful, Phase 1

2012-10-11T11:52:00.004-05:00

When spring arrived, I photographed a young friend just for me, as a creative photo shoot. You can see a couple here.

Then fall started to show up, and I needed to do another session just for me. I had an itching to continue the look I had created in the Spring, but change it up a litte. A different young friend, with an equally amazing ability to blow my mind with perfect expressions. Same dress, same rusty trellises same natural setting, but something different.

Inspired by senior portrait photographer (a friend who let me use her "real" camera back when I was probably in middle school to take photos of angel statues) who does some incredible and unique work (roddaphotography.com), I wanted to create a tent. She has done some wonderful work with her senior girls with these whimsical tents in the middle of nowhere.

I had in mind something similar, but more childlike and inspired by afternoons in the backyard playing, reading, and creating your own world. But like before, I wasn't interested in something that was all playful and fun, but something with emotion, perhaps solemn and compelling. Working with a kid though provides both easily, as every deep stare she threw into the lens was quickly followed by a genuine laugh or bright eyes. I can't get enough of either.

The brightness, a little girl being swallowed up in white lace and sunshine. Such sweetness, even in the solemnity.

This also provided me with a chance to experiment some with lighting, editing, and trying a few different styles that I haven't done before, or not often with real sessions.

(We did two styles during the session- each with a different set of clothes for my little model- so this is just "phase one"- vintage dress.)

A smattering of favorites.

And a transition to the smiles with a little smirk...

Baby faces

2012-10-04T10:39:00.000-05:00

Baby faces are so gosh darn great. They always seem to tell a story. I've enjoyed photographing this family of the last few years and had to laugh as I saw how similar and vastly different his little fella's expressions are like his big brother's from a couple of years ago.

Little Gerber Baby mixed with complete surprise!

And I have to say there are some where I think his face is saying, "Uh... Mom, are we done with this yet? I'm not sure why I'm on my stomach right now..."

Jessi & Jamie

2012-10-02T11:17:00.000-05:00

In many respects this engagement session was like many others. Special locations, colors, and hoping for the cooler fall weather. And for me, the excitement of a "date for three" where I get a special glimpse at a couple for the first time- how they interact together, what they like to do together, and what makes them special. Though occasionally prompted, I see natural moments of tenderness, respect, and great joy.

But... then there were some differences. When we begin the "location" part of the discussion, we look towards places that I have scouted that seem to fit the couple or towards special locations that have meaning. This time, the discussion was started for me when Jessi told me we were going to go to a cemetery. I thought a combination of "What?!?" and "Yes!" Weird confession: I used to have a strange obsession with taking creepy cemetery photos as a teenager, so this seemed right up my alley. It became a little more normal when I learned what a lovely property it is and how he used to go walking here- and almost proposed there! What a story would that have been?

Throw in some early fall wind. (Though as I look back on it, we blamed the wind for making Jessi's hair fly, but I think it was more of their continual laughter! Head-tossing, hair-shifting laughter.)

Then add in another chapter of their story, which was far less of a photography challenge than I expected, to be quite honest. Jessi and Jamie both use wheel chairs. Though far different than what I experience on a daily basis being diabetic, we connected. We've all gotten the comments of "Oh, I just couldn't do it [give a shot, check my blood sugar, get in and out of such-and-such in a chair]..." When really, you can. You just have to. There is no other choice, but non-existence. Though I have to admit, their skills are pretty impressive!

I think this next one might be my favorite. I keep thinking, "Killer!" and then think, "That's not something I would ever say in real life."

And then the wind decides to cooperate quite nicely...

This is moment when we all had to laugh. Here they are, all set up- chairs across the way, out of reach. And I, quite round in my pregnant-ness, lay on the ground to "get the shot." They realized they didn't want me to get stuck, because then we'd all be stuck. :) But isn't it worth it? Check out that awesome trellis!

Then we switched gears. We threw together this little scene (and by threw together, I mean my friend was great to watch our son while my husband was great and came to help me unload this full sized diner booth bench into the middle of their favorite park since with the aid of a passing-by stranger) that visually combines some of their favorite things. Being outdoors, St. Louis restaurants, favorite park, and general lightheartedness and fun.

I'm looking forward to their wedding next spring!

Abbey & Larry Tie the Knot

2012-09-27T12:28:00.000-05:00

Most wedding posts start with the obvious- you know- the bride and groom. Let's break out of the box a bit and start with, oh, say... me.

This wedding marks the end of my wedding shooting season for 2012. A little early, I know. But check it out- me and my #2 are both about to have babies. See? (Just getting to know us? I'm the one in gray, Casey is in green).

But you know what else? We traveled for our last wedding. Yup, all the way to Indiana. Why would we do that? For family. The lovely bride is my cousin, Abbey. So all wrapped up in one "job" was a unique wedding, my final trip, and my family!

My mom and my little gentleman.

My dad even officiated.

Ok, ok, ok... I know. You want wedding photos.

Abbey and Larry were married a few weeks ago at really unique venue in Noblesville, IN called the Mill Top.

I love seeing the emotions of family on a wedding day (especially when it's my darling Aunt Julie).

A pre-first-look photo.

A quick jaunt about town...

Their honeymoon has them all over Europe, so I chose this little spot because I thought it had a nice European feel.

I can't get enough of the details here- the greenery, blue door, moss on the ground, ironwork, and of course, a lovely bride to finish it all off.

I knew I loved this the moment I took it. Father of the bride.

Small bit of switching gears here... Is this not hilarious? These socks have capes, I tell you, capes... That flap in the wind. Though I have to say I giggle when I see it because I think they look like munchkins from Oz.

And switch.

Superman & Wonderwoman...

And easily perhaps one of my favorite silly photos I've ever taken. I just love it!

Ok, and we've switch back and pulled those pant legs back down...

About to walk down the aisle.

Casey's view of the wedding was so great! Not every venue has a brick wall next to the spot where they stand, you know...

First dance. I know it's a small detail, but I seriously can't get enough of the little curl coming down into Abbey's face.

Breakfast for dinner (yum!). That omelet guy and I were a great team. He worked hard to get that omelet up in the air for me!

And the guests even got to play rock band... Though these guys are pretty much just faking. :)

Chrissy: Trash the Dress

2012-09-20T12:13:00.001-05:00

Let's begin with an answer to the question, "What is Trash the Dress?"

Simply stated, it is a bridal session with little rules and a lot of flexibility. Sometimes called an "after session" or "trash the dress," these sessions are not limited by the time, location, or cleanliness required on a wedding day, yet create beautiful art of a bride in her gown. Often marked by contrast of a lovely bride in her gown in unexpected locations, these sessions hold symbolism for many brides. A gown is needed once, as a marriage is meant to last a lifetime.

(And... it's fun.)

Having photographed Chrissy for her engagement session and wedding over the last few years, I was thrilled to have her approach me for a trash the dress session. Not only does she have a gorgeous smile and contagious laughter...

But she also has these big, wide eyes I can stare at for hours.

After exploring the farm where she played as a child, it was so hard to narrow down what to share- as this session not only will provide Chrissy with gorgeous portraits, but allowed me a lot of creative freedom as well.

Into the creek...

This makes me giggle... Doesn't she just look so happy sitting in the cold mud?

Can't get enough of these roots...

The sunset peeking through the tree trunks made for a really moody image. I love taking advantage of unusual light.

September birthday boys

2012-09-18T14:21:00.003-05:00

I just can't believe this little guy is a whole year old already.

And walking. And talking. And laughing at nap time. Now that is some serious maturity right there...

And this guy... already hitting the mark of 4! Can't believe it! I love seeing two brothers with birthday in the same month, as I am getting ready for that myself come December.

Just can't beat baby feet!

Wheee!

Many happy birthdays to a family I love!

Becoming a Certified Professional Photographer

2012-08-23T12:58:00.002-05:00

I have been photographing for as long as I can remember, documenting everything from little things (like pine needles, ornaments on a tree, and stuffed animal fuzz) to big things (moving vans as we left Indiana for Kansas when I was 11, houses, oceans). I didn't understand how our basic camera worked, and I pushed it beyond it's limits. I didn't realize why the camera always made my creative photographs look blurry.

Then I figured that out. I would take self-portraits and force my family to sit in front of the camera.

My neighbors were not as unwilling as my parents.

I photographed friends and family. I got my first "big" picture framed when a dear friend printed a photograph as an 11x14. That was HUGE! I took the senior photos of a classmate, and it was projected on an even HUGE-er screen.

As a freshman in college, I photographed my first wedding. It was terrible and I lacked any kind of reasonable system, but I loved it. My professor probably thought I was insane- I learned later that he is a well-known wedding photographer and knew what he was doing and I definitely didn't. He at least told me to take a tripod. Thanks, Dominique!

I got a job as an assistant wedding photographer, and trained as a lead. Learned so much, and it led me to start my own business.

At each step I wondered if I was really "professional" - and even still today doubts creep in. I'm young, and I know I always have a lot more to learn in this ever-changing industry. I hear stories from clients, unfortunately way too often, that previous photographers didn't act professionally- no guidance, no creativity, never got the images finished, or were just confusing. Though it saddens me that so many fellow photographers have fallen into this category, I am glad that my professionalism stands out.

I have been in process of becoming a Certified Professional Photographer, for quite a while, and I am finally there. I have a title beyond Nikki Dukes, superwife-awesomemom.

Nikki Dukes, CPP

After passing the image evaluation phase, I wrote, "The most intimidating and nerve-wrecking part for me is over. I have passed a portfolio review by masters in my craft and have been seen fit to be called professional. I cannot express how unbelievable that is to me- others have said it's no surprise, but for me, it really is."

I was almost there. Just a test away. I called upon my awesome-high-school-test-taking-skills, studied hard, made some old school flash cards, learned many helpful things along the way, and took my #2 pencil to the exam site.

I passed, with a sigh of relief, on the first try. Both of the hardest parts of earning certification I did on the first try.

Now I get to live up to it, continue in professionalism and high standards in the photography industry, and work to earn my re-certification here in a few years.

Press Release

2012-08-23T12:58:00.001-05:00

For Immediate Release

August 23, 2012

Local Photographer Earns Certification

Nikki Dukes of Purple Lemon Photography in St. Louis, Missouri has earned the Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) designation from the Professional Certification Commission.

Dukes earned this designation after meeting rigorous requirements measuring her artistic and technical competence. The Professional Photographic Certification Commission currently recognizes less than 2,000 Certified Professional Photographers.

About her certification, Dukes says, “In an age where everyone has a camera or a friend testing the waters of starting a business, I want to show that hiring a photographer with professionalism, technical skill, and creativity are worth the investment. I have worked to ensure that I am qualified to be sought out as a Certified Professional Photographer.

The Professional Photographic Certification Commission (www.certifiedphotographer.com) is the leading body for certifying imaging professionals. Certified Professional Photographers must complete a written examination, finish and image evaluation and adhere to a stringent code of conduct. Certification must be renewed on a periodic basis, ensuring continuing confidence in the professionalism of Certified Professional Photographers.

For more information: Nikki Dukes

Purple Lemon Photography

nikki@purplelemonphotography.com

www.purplelemonphotography.com

Fall Sale with Rare Weekend Shooting Slots!

2012-08-16T14:53:00.000-05:00

Be sure to mention this ad to take advantage of our limited time offer of digital packages (no need to purchase prints) at a sale price!

I love pregnant bellies.

2012-08-14T12:02:00.000-05:00

I do. I really love pregnant bellies. Though sometimes mine gets in the way, and I kind of heave it up in the air when I walk (and sheesh, I know...I've got a lot of time ahead of me and I can expect mine to get HUGE).

Erin let me photograph her lovely, round belly last week. It was hot day for for two preggos to waltz about a lake, but let me tell ya- I'm loving these! Just a few more weeks and we'll get to know what cute bundle is hiding in there- boy or girl? Your guess is as good as mine...

Erin totally went with it for this idea (and Kevin, her husband, proved to be an excellent assistant for this), and I so glad they trusted me!

One of the goals of this session was to show their relationship through romance and nature. Now, granted it was hot outside, but this is downright steamy. :)

Again, Erin trusted me, and let me say, I love it!